Noah Barleywater runs away
by John Boyne
Age rating: Ages 14–16 · Teens
Age rating and Christian content guidance for parents.
First published 2010
Noah Barleywater runs away from his unhappy home and embarks on a fantastical journey with a mysterious old man.
Concern Level
Mixed
Virtue Level
Thin
Concern Level
Mixed
Virtue Level
Thin
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Dokilit is an AI-powered content guide for Christian parents. We analyse books through the lens of faith and family, then show you the concerns, the virtues, and the conversation points that matter for your home.
Things to consider
Higher = more presentNo sexual content is present in the book.
There are some unsettling and potentially frightening encounters.
No profanity is used by the characters.
The story does not contain blasphemy.
No substance use is depicted.
Noah's running away implies a desire to escape unhappiness.
Some encounters and the overall atmosphere can be eerie.
The old man's magic and the fantastical elements border on occult.
No LGBTQ+ themes are present.
The magical elements present a worldview outside of traditional Christianity.
God or Christians are not portrayed negatively.
Virtues to celebrate
Higher = stronger presenceNoah shows courage in facing his fears and the unknown.
No explicit Christian faith elements are present.
Noah experiences a form of connection with the old man.
Themes of grace, mercy, or repentance are absent.
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